Library digitization projects, issues and guidelines - A survey of the literature

Purpose - To provide a selective bibliography of literature which explores issues and provides guidelines on library digitization projects. Design/methodology/approach - Literature published from 2000-2005 on library digitization projects was examined. Issues involving digitization projects are presented, as well as case studies and resources for digitization projects. The paper has the following sections: project management, funding digital projects, selection of materials, legal issues, metadata creation, interoperability, and preservation issues. Findings - Libraries are undertaking digitization projects to provide wider access to and to preserve materials. The literature survey presents an overview of digitization activities and discussions of issues concerning library digital projects. The authors of the case studies detail how libraries dealt with various components of the projects, such as planning, cataloging, and handling copyright issues. Many aspects of digitization projects will be changing over time, with further research and advances in technology, and the literature on the subject bears watching in coming years. Practical implications - The articles and resource guides in the literature survey can assist librarians in carrying out digitization projects in their institutions. Originality/value - It explains how important issues in library digitization projects are being encountered and resolved and provides many practical guidelines and resources for librarians undertaking such projects.